A few months ago, I was sure I was finally getting faster.
For the first time, my running pace had gone from a sluggish 13-minute mile to a steady 11-minute mile. At my best, I even hit 9:30 in training! I could feel that progress, that rush, thinking, This is it—I’m finally getting somewhere.
But then…the progress just stopped.
No matter how much I trained, my pace wouldn’t drop below 10:30 to 11 minutes per mile. I was so close to my goal of running steady 9-minute miles, but it felt out of reach. It’s frustrating, especially since I’ve been working hard, focusing on new training methods, strength training, and even adjusting my diet.
I started doubting myself, wondering if maybe I just wasn’t “cut out” to be fast. Every run started to end in frustration, with me checking my watch, questioning everything I was doing, and thinking, Why isn’t this working?
No matter how much I trained, my pace wouldn’t drop below 10:30 to 11 minutes per mile. I was so close to my goal of running steady 9-minute miles, but it felt out of reach.
It’s frustrating, especially since I’ve been working hard, focusing on new training methods, strength training, and even adjusting my diet. I started doubting myself, wondering if maybe I just wasn’t “cut out” to be fast. Every run started to end in frustration, with me checking my watch, questioning everything I was doing, and thinking, Why isn’t this working?
To be honest, juggling this with a demanding job hasn’t been easy.
But I know people with way more on their plate who still find time to work out, so I keep reminding myself it’s possible. It’s just going to take a bit of trial and error to make it all fit. Scheduling my workouts and sticking to them has been one of my best strategies so far.
When frustration creeps in, I try to reframe things. Instead of aiming for perfection, I’m focusing on consistency. I ask myself, “What can I fit in today that’ll make me feel good about showing up?” Sometimes, that’s a full 45-minute weight session; other days, it’s a quick 15-minute workout or a long walk.
So, here’s my plan: I’m hitting pause on races and climbs for the next six months. Instead, I’m going back to basics: base fitness. No races, no climbs, just a commitment to build a strong foundation. I’m working with a coach, lifting weights, and finding joy in the process rather than obsessing over results.
If you’re in a similar spot, feeling like you’re stuck or not seeing the results you want, here’s what I’ve learned: sometimes, stepping back and giving yourself room to grow can be the best move. You don’t have to be in race mode all the time. Embrace the journey, and remember why you started.
In the end, this is about more than just hitting a certain pace or goal. It’s about finding joy in the process and knowing that every step—no matter how slow—is part of your progress.
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